Today, the NSW Government said it is delivering on its election commitment to ensure the longevity of regional media, with the Minns Labor Government’s first Budget to deliver a $3 million commitment devoted to advertising spending in regional and community print outlets across the next three years.  

The new investment will be directed towards paid print advertising, ensuring communities across NSW are aware of services available to them and to provide important government updates.

This targeted spend will support regional and community print outlets to help keep their newsrooms active, allowing communities to stay up to date with local, state and national news that affects their everyday lives. 

Lismore App owner and Managing Director Simon Mumford, said this is another example where the government have no idea how regional news is consumed and gives support to only one facet of newspapers.

"Digital newspapers, like the Lismore App, are the future of news for regional NSW and Australia. Our readership is as strong if not stronger than any printed newspaper in Lismore, yet the government keeps helping printed newspapers and not digital newspapers."

"Plus, the NSW Government have an advertising agency in Sydney or Melbourne that is looking for easy booking options rather than return on government money for their advertising spend. If you have an agency system where they can book advertising campaigns themselves, all good, if you don't, tough luck. There is no or little money for independent newspapers that don't support their platform," Mr Mumford explained.

"This is on top of the millions of dollars already spent in subsidising printed newspapers when printing costs increased. Putting money into regional media to make sure they are represented is a great idea, but it should be the same rule for everyone. A level playing field."

"What is it George Orwell said? All animals are equal, some are just more equal than others."

In recent years, public information campaigns run by the NSW Government have included COVID-19 and influenza vaccination reminders, as well as road and health safety initiatives.

The government went on to say that today's announcement is an important acknowledgment of the essential role community newspapers play in our regional communities as a trusted voice who provide on-the-ground public interest journalism across our state.

The Minns Labor Government has also doubled the Regional Media Fund to $6 million dollars, to better support regional media in diversifying and expanding into digital content. 

Projects receiving funding include works to update news websites, purchase photographic equipment and create new channels such as podcasts or web videos for existing outlets.

Information about the Regional Media Fund is available here: www.nsw.gov.au/rmf    

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said, “Newspapers remain a trusted source of local news and information for people living in towns right across regional NSW.”

“By supporting advertising in regional print publications, the NSW Government is making sure regional audiences are aware of relevant programs and support, like grants and rebates available to them, bush fire readiness reminders, and updates on local infrastructure.” 

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “The $3 million regional advertising package is an important commitment by the NSW Government to support regional media, community-based organisations that work tirelessly to keep their readers informed.

“Regional publications are valued partners with the NSW Government, and the additional advertising spend will ensure residents in regional areas hear of important government programs at the right time.”

“We acknowledge the difficulties faced by regional newsrooms around NSW. This additional $3 million funding injection will support the vital work they do in providing the news regional residents need.”

The Lismore App acknowledges the hard work of its team to keep residents of Lismore and the Northern Rivers informed on a daily basis but will wait and see how much advertising, if any, it will receive in the next three years.